Materials Engineering and Science Program

Contact Information

Dr. Jon J. Kellar
Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering
Mineral Industries 112
(605) 394-2343
E-mail: Jon.Kellar@sdsmt.edu

Advisory Council

Advisory Council members are from the Departments of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, Physics, and Chemistry.

Faculty

Douglas W. Fuerstenau Professor Kellar; Professors Corey, Cross, Fong, Salem, Sinden, and Sobolev; Associate Professors Crawford, Heglund, Jasthi, Smirnova, West, and Zhu; Assistant Professor Bai; Emeritus Professor Boyles, Howard, Stone; Distinguished Professor Emeritus Han.

MS and PhD in Materials Engineering and Science

The graduate program in Materials Engineering and Science (MES) offers a student the opportunity to expand his/her knowledge and understanding of the science and technology of materials production, behavior, and applications. The student will undertake multidisciplinary approaches, combining the basic elements of both engineering and science, to the solution of materials-related problems. Because such problems are found in every science and engineering discipline, the degree applicant has considerable flexibility in the selection of the department in which to pursue dissertation research, within the confines of the applicant’s academic preparation and interests. For example, research emphasis may be placed on improving processes for the production of metallic, polymeric, ceramic, or other structural or electronic materials. Alternatively, the degree candidate may investigate mechanisms for improving material properties, which in turn, could lead to new or better applications. Classroom and individualized instruction will provide the necessary theory to complement such creative activities.

Research Areas

Example areas of research specialization include but are not limited to

Computational Modeling
Polymer Synthesis
Corrosion Inhibition
Development of Multiphase Materials
Fiber Reinforced Composites
Magnetic Nanocomposites
Nanoscale Electronic Materials
Polymer Matrix Composites
Semiconductor Materials and Devices
Strengthening Mechanisms
Surface Chemistry of Flotation
Thermophysical Properties
Thin Films
Security Printing
Hydrometallurgical Extraction
Friction Stir Welding
Cold Spray Processing
Direct Write Technology

Degree Options

The degree options are the MS degree (thesis or non-thesis) or a PhD degree in Materials Engineering and Science.

Outcomes

an ability to apply general technical knowledge to solve problems related to materials engineering and science and conduct research
an ability to apply core Materials Engineering and Science discipline knowledge to analyze and interpret data
an ability to communicate effectively in a technical manner (both written and oral)
an ability to conduct themselves in a professional manner consistent with a graduate level

Financial support

A limited number of fellowships and assistantships are available to qualified students. All applicants are automatically considered for assistantships.

Background requirements

Expected baccalaureate areas required for admission include engineering or physical science (chemistry and physics) degrees.

Admission requirements

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE), three letters of recommendation, and a GPA of 3.00 or better are required of all applicants for the MES program. The TOEFL exam is required for students whose native language is not English. GRE exceptions are granted for SD Mines students.

Transfer credits

Policies for transferring credits from outside institutions can be found in the requirements and policies applied to all graduate degrees by the Council of Graduate Education. All transfers are subject to approval by the student’s advisor or advisory committee.